UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said conversations are happening with faith leaders to reach an agreement on the closure of places of worship during lockdown.

Speaking to the House of Commons on Wednesday he said: "Ministers are talking to faith leaders to do everything we can to reach an accommodation as soon as possible."

Mr Hancock acknowledged the backlash from faith leaders on banning worship services during the second lockdown and said he understood "the impact of this infringement on liberties".

MP for Gloucester, Richard Graham and Sir Edward Leigh urged Mr Hancock to comment on the issue. Both argued that places of worship should open again as soon as possible as their buildings have enforced Covid-19 safety measures. 

Also on Wednesday, during the debate discussing the lockdown measures, former Prime Minister Theresa May also mentioned the matter saying that banning worship meetings could set a 'dangerous' precedent. 

This comes after faith leaders from across the UK wrote a letter to the government urging them to re-evaluate the closure of worship places.
 
On Thursday, England entered a second lockdown until 2nd December. This will see places of worship close for service gatherings but open for private prayer and for broadcasting services.